Chapter 2 – The Woman Who Couldn't Run from the Truth
The shattered silence inside the ballroom felt heavier than stone.
Scarlett's knees weakened as she stared at the silver bracelet wrapped around the waitress's wrist. Her fingers instinctively reached toward it.
"I gave this to my little sister..." she whispered.
Evelyn slowly nodded, tears rolling down her face.
"You tied it around my wrist the night before we went camping. You said it would protect me if I ever got lost."
Memories exploded inside Scarlett's mind.
A little girl laughing beside the campfire.
A tiny hand holding hers.
A butterfly-shaped birthmark behind one small ear.
Scarlett covered her mouth, unable to breathe.
Across the room, Eleanor suddenly turned toward the exit.
"Stop her!" Scarlett shouted.
Security guards blocked every doorway before Eleanor could escape.
The elegant woman who had always appeared gentle and loving suddenly looked terrified.
"I don't know this girl!" Eleanor screamed.
At that moment, an elderly man slowly stepped forward from among the guests.
It was Michael—the retired family driver.
His voice trembled.
"I've stayed silent for ten years..."
He looked directly at Scarlett.
"...because Eleanor threatened to destroy my family if I ever told the truth."
Every guest stood frozen.
Michael pointed at Evelyn.
May you like
"She is your sister."
"And Eleanor abandoned her that night."
